Note 13 — Chapter V
Reading edition
Amongst some letters my father gave me some long time ago is one which must have satisfied even Mr Lepard. It is as follows:—
"Cahir Barracks, September 23rd, 1853.
"Sir,—Having been informed by Private Charles Bradlaugh of the 7th Dragoon Guards, that you require some testimonials as to character, I beg to inform you that during the time this man has been in the regiment (since December 1850) his conduct has been extremely good, and I beg also to add that he is always considered to be a clever, well-informed, and steady young man. Should you require any further information, I shall be most happy to give [all] in my power.—I am, Sir, your obedient Servant,
"E. T. Dowbiggin, Lieut. and Adjutant, 7th Dragoon Guards.
"J. Lepard, Esq.
"P.S.—I may observe that during the last eighteen months this man has been occupying rather a prominent situation in the regiment, being that of orderly room clerk, and has consequently been immediately under my notice."